Andy Cornish will head Australian giant's direct insurance operation

Insurance Australia Group (IAG) has appointed Andy Cornish as chief executive of its Australian Direct Insurance division.

Cornish, who was previously managing director of RBS Insurance, will take up the role in January.

IAG’s Direct Insurance business provides personal and business insurance products directly to customers through a network of branches, franchises and country service centres throughout Australia as well as call centres and online facilities, under the NRMA Insurance, SGIO and SGIC brands.

IAG Managing Director and chief executive Michael Wilkins said: “Andy is a 32 year veteran of the general insurance industry, with a strong track record in successfully growing profitable businesses across insurance classes and distribution channels.

“He successfully grew [RBS Insuarnce's] commercial insurance division, including launching Direct Line for Business in the UK last year and, previously, he led the lucrative expansion of RBS Insurance across Europe and China.

Before joining RBS Insurance, Cornish was chief executive of motoring organisation Green Flag Group. He also held roles at Zurich, where he advised on direct general insurance market entry strategies; and Eagle Star Insurance, in management positions in personal and commercial lines.

Cornish will take on the role from Gary Dransfield who has been acting chief executive of Direct Insurance.